House Passes Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010
Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 (S. 3307). Currently, over 32 million children rely on federal child nutrition programs and this legislation will help set American children on a path of healthy eating and healthy living.
The bill, which will reauthorize child nutrition programs, will expand access for millions of children to healthy meals year round in schools, child care, and community based settings. It is also one of the most historic investments in child nutrition programs, since they were first implemented.
"As a nurse for over 30 years, I have seen firsthand the risks and illnesses that can result from obesity," said Rep. McCarthy. "I have been working hard on childhood nutrition legislation for years and this bill calls for common sense action to protect the health of our children. I applaud my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for their support of this effort to improve access to healthy food for our children."
As Chairwoman of the Healthy Families and Communities Subcommittee, Congresswoman McCarthy has worked to address many important issues through child nutrition reauthorization, including how we can reduce childhood obesity. This bill contains provisions from legislation that Rep. McCarthy previously introduced to promote nutrition and wellness in child care settings and supporting breastfeeding for low-income women. During the 111thCongress, McCarthy introduced five pieces of legislation which aim to reduce childhood obesity and she was an original co-sponsor of the Improving Nutrition for America's Children Act.
"One of the greatest responsibilities we have as a Nation is to safeguard the health and well-being of our children. By taking a comprehensive approach to nutrition, our children, families and communities will all be healthier," McCarthy said.
Earlier this week, Congresswoman McCarthy joined House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Chairman George Miller, Reps. Rose DeLauro, Jim McGovern and Senator Blanche Lincoln to urge Congress to pass this important legislation to improve nutrition and reduce childhood obesity.